Akron getting first new tire factory in generations

[TexasTowelie]

The Rubber City, once synonymous with tire building, will be getting a new tire factory apparently for the first time since Franklin D. Roosevelt was president.

Bridgestone Americas this summer will begin construction of a new Firestone plant near its Akron technical center. The plant will make tires for IndyCar open-wheel racing.

One local historian says it likely will be Akron’s first new tire plant since at least World War II.

The specialized factory eventually will replace the company’s race tire plant at the nearby former Firestone complex, now owned by the city, that will be turned into an industrial park.

Read more: https://www.ohio.com/news/20190206/akron-getting-first-new-tire-factory-in-generations

[Ohiogal]

1. Good news.

Is Trump taking credit for it?

[safeinOhio]

2. Tires for open wheel Indy cars?

Not a huge market.

[brush]

4. And it's just replacing anothe, older plant.

Not many new jobs there but we can be sure trump wil be tweeting about it.

[Scruffy1]

6. I'm sure it's a money loser.

I've been away from racing cars for years. At the time Goodyear was the only player. IIRC Goodyear charged $100 per tire weather it was for a Formula V or a monster Can-AM car. This included service from a truck brought to races with a full crew. It's just advertising.

[mercuryblues]

3. Trump will hail this as proof of his leadership

his minions will suck it and repeat it.

None of them will acknowledge that this plant is replacing the one a few towns over. IOW no new jobs will be created other than constructing the facility. Pretty sure their tax breaks will cover part of the cost for construction. I suspect, job losses at the plant. Modern technology being what it is will ensure that will happen.

[marble falls]

5. Didn't Mickey Thompson make race tires in Akron in the '70's?